Arlington HVAC
An energy hog! Will you be surprised to learn that I am talking of your place, be it a new, old or refurbished home in Arlington? Yes, lots and lots of homes here lose energy that explains why the average energy cost is above $ 2,000 yearly. Updating energy efficiency can be a very costly investment. And, many of us do not quite understand why we should buy and replace the Arlington HVAC system to improve.
Are you having appropriate HVAC system?
A HVAC older than ten years require frequent HVAC repair and will naturally not be as reliable and efficient as a modern one. But what most people ignore is that the correct size (cooling and/or heating output) is vital to get the best comfort, efficiency as well as the lowest operating and maintenance costs from the new system lifespan. Unfortunately, the cooling and heating systems are not sized in the correct way by more than 50% of contractors.
Size of the system
The mistake that is most common is over sizing the air conditioner. An oversized system costs more to install and to operate. Over sizing causes the system to work inefficiently and to break down too, more often. While oversized furnaces often create large uncomfortable swings of temperature, oversized air conditioners will not run the time needed for the air to dehumidify. Consequently, we have that ‘clammy’ feeling and an unhealthy growth of mold.
Factors affecting HVAC size…
To correctly size the HVAC system these key factors have to be taken into consideration: local climate, future or current insulation levels, window areas, type and location, home orientation, size and shape, rate of air infiltration, number of occupants and their age, and types of appliances and lights that produce heat.
The Norms
Manual D and Manual J are two sizing guidelines that will assist you to determine the proper HVAC system sizing. You must insist that the contractor uses a correct sizing calculation before you sign a contract. Conscientious contractors of air conditioning and heating like Carrier air conditioner repair know this and will reference it when they prepare a quote.
The ACCA, Air Conditioning Contractors of America, has published the ”Residential Load Calculation” or Manual J, which is the method recommended in the USA, Many user-friendly software packages for home owners inform and prepare you before you meet the potential contractor and your calculation procedure is also simplified. Your contractor must follow the procedure of Manual J.
As for ducts that are usually comprised in the installation, their sizing must be according to “Residential Duct Design” or ACCA Manual D. You must ensure that mastic is used to seal duct joints so as to prevent conditioned air to be lost into the floors and walls. You may consult the “Residential Equipment Selection” which is an ACCA comprehensive guide to choose home cooling and heating systems.
This summary of correct HVAC sizing is destined to help to have a more comfortable and more energy efficient home. Take all the time you need to research and to understand proper sizing and its terminology and for purchase and installation, choose a company that is well referenced and certified.
